First Solar\’s stock run hangs on outlook

How steady is the business overhaul at First Solar
?

That\’s a key question investors want answered when First Solar reports fourth-quarter earnings Tuesday afternoon. Expectations have been steadily rising not just for First Solar, but for the sun power sector overall.

Since last August, First Solar shares have shot up 35%, compared with a 7% gain for the S&P 500 Index. Meanwhile, many short sellers — those betting that the stock will decline in value — have been flushed out.

Short interest in First Solar shares rose to a record high last summer of 37% of common shares outstanding. It’s now at 21%, the latest FactSet data shows.

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